Experience a pub above and beyond at Gore Range Brewery

Crab cakes with asparagus and dipping sause.Kristin Anderson | Special to the Daily

Editor’s note: This story is reprinted from EAT Magazine featuring the best restaurants in the Vail Valley.

EAT is available in magazine racks and hotel lobbies for free.

With an always-happening bar scene and family-friendly seating, Gore Range Brewery is the place to go for unwinding on winter evenings or for watching game-day drama unfold. This local brewery has two new artisan beers on tap for the winter season, daily menu specials and many old favorites.

The casual atmosphere at Gore Range Brewery adds to a dining scene that’s comfortable enough for hanging out with family and friends — and also just right for an unassuming first date.

“I like to keep the profile of our food and beer within the profile of what people expect for that style,” Coudouy said. “You’re not going to find any strawberries in the Caesar salad here.”

The two newest additions to Gore Range’s beer list capture this sentiment — but keeping it within the realm of what’s known and loved. At 8.2 percent alcohol by volume, the brown-hued Belgian Dubbel is stronger than most, lightly hopped and has a characteristic flavor that comes from the addition of Belgian candi sugar.

“And that’s just what a classic Belgian dubbel does,” Coudouy said.

Likewise, the Pascal’s Pyrenees Pilsner is an easy-drinking, light and crisp beer that can be enjoyed while watching back-to-back games.

Beyond Brewpub fare

If you’re new to Gore Range Brewery, begin with a flight of beers to get a sense of your favorites, and order a few small menu items for sharing. Gore Range is known for its knockout nachos — a crispy mound of goodness, piled high and packed with fresh ingredients. And beyond-the-norm appetizers including the tuna roll and the crab cakes are flavorful starters that can be a light meal on their own. Follow up with a generously sized salad, a wood-oven pizza, or one of Gore Range’s best-selling sandwiches that include the smoked brisket dip or the Reuben sandwich.

Hearty winter appetites and cold-weather cravings will be fulfilled with menu selections including the roasted tomato soup, served with a cheddar and basil grilled cheese sandwich, and entrees such as the baby back ribs or the New York strip steak.

Good to know: Coudouy prides himself in ordering special ingredients to create “truly special specials” instead of reimagining overstocked items, so always take a look at the list of daily specials along with the full menu for even more exciting options.

Finally, choose a light and sweet ending to your evening at Gore Range Brewery with the Toblerone mousse, a nutty whipped chocolate dessert reminiscent of the beloved Swiss chocolate that will have you happily yodeling all the way home.